The Empact approach
Making an impact together
By enabling organizations to realize their ESG ambitions, we accelerate the transition to a sustainable world. That’s what we do it all for. We therefore believe in a focused and practical approach, where Empact enables companies and organizations to achieve their goals themselves.
With our working method, we emphatically distinguish ourselves from many commercial consultancies, which like to make organizations dependent on their services. We work differently, because we want to make ourselves superfluous.
Meet Empact’s approach
At Empact, we work with an expert team that includes consultants, scientists and assurance providers. Depending on your goals and ambitions, we deploy our most appropriate people to help you in the best possible way. We use a five-step model, which is shown below.
Curious? Then read more here...
Step 1 of the process involves a thorough baseline measurement and analysis to establish a solid foundation. This involves a detailed examination of the current situation. Internally such as existing policies, processes, activities and governance. Externally such as databases, news, sector analysis and customer and other stakeholder input. Based on this, the necessary steps are determined for the next phase.
In step 2, based on the findings from the first phase, the ESG vision and associated ambitions are established. This vision must be endorsed by the management and the Supervisory Board or Board of Trustees. Next, key objectives and responsibilities within the organization are defined, which together form the ESG strategy. The goal is to achieve tangible, positive changes that contribute to sustainable growth and make a lasting difference. See also: empact.nu/esgstrategy
In step 3, implementation or execution, concrete plans are made for each sub-area based on the established strategy, goals, governance and plan of action. Working groups are formed to convert the strategic goals into operational actions. Here, it is important to achieve quick success with quick wins and iconic projects to increase the visibility of efforts and strengthen support within the organization. See also empact.nu/esgimplementation
Step 4, It is important to record the ESG transition, but reporting is not a goal. A report can take several forms. It can be part of an end product such as an Evaluation study (link to EZK news) or CSRD. But also for accountability, both internal and external reporting on changes or choices.
In Step 5, Assurance, the focus is on sustainably integrating the ESG strategy within the organization. It is crucial to understand that responsibility for ESG performance ultimately rests with the CEO. The process of implementation may take longer than expected, with the involvement of the internal organization, finance, and management becoming increasingly important. The goal is to ensure that ESG is not only implemented, but fully integrated into the business operations.
All 5 steps require a grip and control on the progress, budget and deadlines. Within our approach, we work with recurring coordination meetings, GANNT charts for planning, action lists and monthly overviews and quarterly evaluation moments with the client. But we do this in a pragmatic way: often only for long-running projects and when necessary. Project management can also be led by our clients.
Making ourselves redundant, we promise:
- Empact's goal is to make itself redundant;
- This means helping our clients build understanding and knowledge by working together;
- When we leave, the processes are in place for our clients to deliver their own ESG performance.
What we ask of you:
- For this, we require a project team from our clients that has sufficient time to work on this;
- And a clear internal structure, with invested responsibilities and involvement at the board level.
Issues we often identify with our clients:
- Connection to primary business activities
- Cooperation with customers and suppliers
- Clear project approach focused on practical results
That's why we work agile:
- By using short-term plans and actions, we make it a practical way of working together;
- Over the course of the project, the role of our clients emerges and our own role diminishes;
- Empact's role will change from a driving and working force to a trusted advisor who provides hands-on support for our clients.